Based on the 1999 young adult novel by Stephen Chbosky, the 2012 film directed by Chbosky follows teen Charlie’s (Logan Lerman) life. The reclusive 15-year-old starts high school and meets seniors Sam (Emma Watson) and Patrick (Ezra Miller). Behind the scenes, Charlie struggles to cope with his troublesome past and tries to come to terms with his friend’s suicide. Through his letters to an unknown friend, we watch as Charlie grows and learns to accept himself and his friends.
The soundtrack equally matches the teen angst in the film. With songs from The Smiths and Sonic Youth, the theme of self-growth is set as it creates a sense of relatability and nostalgia. The Perks of Being a Wallflower is the epitome of being a teenager. Here are some of the best musical moments from the soundtrack.
Logan Lerman
Emma Watson
Ezra Miller
Mae Whitman
Kate Walsh
Dylan McDermott
Melanie Lynskey
Nina Dobrev
Johnny Simmons
Joan Cusack
Paul Rudd
Nicholas Braun
“Asleep” - The Smiths
Charlie receives a mixtape from his sister Candace (Nina Dobrev) which was originally created by her boyfriend Derek (Nicholas Braun). He becomes enamored with indie music, which ultimately allows him to connect with Sam and Patrick. As music is a fundamental part of the movie, mixtapes become a metaphor for connection and character development as Charlie forms new bonds with his peers. Being a wallflower, as deemed by Patrick, he struggles to open up partially due to losing his friend to suicide.
“Teen Age Riot” -Sonic Youth
After spotting Charlie at school, Patrick quickly seeks him out. Being drawn to his elusive and reserved persona, he and his step-sister Sam quickly befriend him. After hanging out for the first time, as they drive home, the track plays. The title alludes to the angst and rebellious spirit the two possess, and Charlie soon comes to have.
“Come On Eileen” - Dexys Midnight Runners
Chbosky believes “Come On Eileen” is one of the best songs to dance to, making it ever so fitting for this memorable scene. Playing at a school dance, Sam and Patrick take the floor and perform their signature dance routine to the track. Not only does the scene showcase the stepsibling’s deep bond, but it also showcases Charlie coming out of his shell and embracing the energy his friends put into the world.
“Tugboat” - Galaxie 500
Charlie and his friends go to a party at Bob’s (Adam Hagenbuch) house. After accidentally eating a weed brownie, he asks Sam for a milkshake. He opens up to her and tells her about his deceased best friend- a story he had never told anyone in the past. “Tugboat” by Galaxie 500 plays in the background. The scene tugs at your heart, so it’s no surprise the song was chosen.
“Here” - Pavement
Charlie is welcomed into the island of misfit toys, aka Sam and Patrick’s friend group. In this scene, “Here” plays, and Patrick bestows the title of being a wallflower on Charlie. While having multiple meanings that are up for interpretation, the unstructured narration of the song fits the complexities of friendship yet emphasizes the importance of Charlie finally feeling like he has a place to be accepted.
“Heroes” - David Bowie
When you think of The Perks of Being a Wallflower, this song might come to mind. Sam, Patrick, and Charlie are driving, and the famous Bowie track comes on. Being the first time Charlie had heard the song, Patrick and Sam decided that they needed to drive through a tunnel to get the full effect. Sam stands on the back of the car with her arms stretched, and Charlie famously reflects that he once again feels infinite. Initially, the tune was going to be “Landslide” by Fleetwood Mac, but “Heroes” was selected, as writer/director Chbosky thought it was more bombastic. For me, it is unimaginable to think of any other song being used for this sequence.
“All Out of Love” - Air Supply
Charlie takes on the task of creating a mixtape for Sam including the song “All Out of Love.” The track plays over a montage of Charlie’s growing friendship with the island of misfit toys and his dynamic with his beloved English teacher, Mr. Anderson (Paul Rudd). Mr. Anderson later says, “We accept the love we think we deserve” to Charlie, and this song is a pivotal moment in the movie.
“Ye Olde Backlash” - Bongwater
This time, Charlie intended to take drugs, taking a tab of LSD (acid) at a party. He remembers repressed details of his tumultuous relationship with his Aunt Helen (Melanie Lynskey). This scene is unlike any other. When he passes out in a snowbank, there is a glimpse into his hidden battle with PTSD, which is rarely shown in the film. His history with mental illness is alluded to when it’s discovered he went to a mental hospital. But this scene is an open expression of trauma and the journey he will embark on to cope with it.
“Counting Backwards” - Throwing Muses
Charlie is in love with Sam even from his first encounter with her. He dates Mary Elizabeth (Mae Whitman) as a distraction. During a party game, he is told to kiss the prettiest girl at the party. Instead of kissing his girlfriend, he kisses Sam. While “Counting Backwards” plays, Mary Elizabeth tells Charlie she is over the betrayal and has moved on. The tension between him and Sam is undeniable at this point and foreshadows their later romantic relationship.
“Pearly-Dewdrops' Drops” - Cocteau Twins
Like many Cocteau Twins songs, “Perly Dew Drops Drop” has a melancholy yet ethereal sound. This vibe perfectly fits one of the movie's final scenes. The track plays after the last day of school as Sam and Patrick gear up for graduation. Charlie is happy yet jealous, knowing he can’t move on with them. It’s the perfect sentiment to wrap up the film and illustrate Charlie’s coming of age and personal growth.